ABOUT THE PROGRAM
The Youth Water Leaders Program provides participants with the skills and tools necessary to identify and propose solutions to environmental issues within the Ottawa River watershed. Participants work with experts in the fields of communication, science, education and volunteering to co-design and carry out meaningful community service projects addressing environmental water challenges in their communities. Over a 8-month period, participants gain more than 120 volunteer hours through mentorship workshops, hands-on learning, and the completion of their co-designed volunteer projects. They get to know the watershed and learn about the different policies, regulations and authorities governing it. Participants also get to experience the Ottawa River firsthand as part of a paddle expedition they will help plan! Upon completion of the program, participants will have developed the research, organizational and leadership skills that will serve them well in pursuing the future career of their choice. Youth participants will have made invaluable connections with scientists, Indigenous knowledge holders, and community organizations, as well as fostered friendships through cooperative action to improve the health of the Ottawa River watershed |
MY PROJECT
People protect what they care about, but how can we get people to care about the environment? Through education and experiential learning, we can assist in the development of land connections in order to engage others in environmental conservation. The purpose of the River Aware Challenge is to help instill in all people a passion for the environment. Canada has the most freshwater in the world and it is a resource that we often take for granted. To get people thinking about the water systems around them, the River Aware Challenge was created in partnership with Ottawa Riverkeeper’s Youth Water Leaders Program and Ocean Wise. Through this challenge you will be able to get creative, gain hands-on experience with experiments, and connect with your community as you learn about water, access to clean water, and conservation! The challenge is open to everyone, we welcome families, groups and individual participation. To complete the challenge it is recommended that you try at least 4 out of the 8 activities listed below! All participants are invited to fill out the form below to receive a River Aware badge while supplies last! Released in both french and english! |